Lottery winner’s brother-in-law dies in blaze

TRAGEDY struck Euro lottery millionaire Dolores McNamara last night when her brother-in-law died in a caravan fire.

Martin Anthony McCarthy, who was in his 50s, died in the inferno, which occurred at the rear of a house at Crecora Avenue, Ballinacurra Weston, Limerick city.

Mr McCarthy’s wife, Deirdre, is a sister of Dolores McNamara, who won €115 million in the EuroMillions lottery.

Mr McCarthy was the father of Noddy McCarthy, who was sentenced to life for his part in the murder of Limerick crime boss Kieran Keane in 2003.

Garda forensic experts were carrying out an examination at the scene of the fire last night. A Garda spokesman said from initial reports they were not treating the death of Mr McCarthy as suspicious.

Mr McCarthy was also an uncle of the notorious Dundon brothers, one of whom, Dessie, is also serving life for his part in the murder of Kieran Keane.

His other nephews include Wayne Dundon, whose trial and imprisonment gardaí believe led to the murder of Limerick businessman Roy Collins last Easter.

Two other Dundon brothers are also serving prison sentences.

One local source said Mr McCarthy lived alone.

A high-profile lawyer engaged for the murder trial of her nephew Noddy McCarthy was financed by the lottery winnings.

In July 2005, Dolores McNamara made EuroMillions history hen she scooped €115 million, the biggest ever individual prize at the time.

After rolling over nine times, the jackpot was won on a ticket purchased in Garryowen, Limerick The then 45-year-old mother of six claimed the prize the following month at the Irish National Lottery’s headquarters in Dublin.

In the immediate wake of her windfall, Ms McNamara went into hiding temporarily.

After four days away from the gaze of the media, the Limerick housewife braved the lime light to collect her bumper cheque.

Her solicitor said at the time: “Up to now, Dolores has lived a very happy and contented life among her family, friends and neighbours and it is her sincere desire that she and her family will return to normality as soon as possible.”